I don't understand how if 2 pitchers get the same number of outs, but one has more strikeouts, then that pitcher is considered superior.
Strikeouts can be a predictive tool - if you strike out a lot of batters in lower leagues, it can suggest better things in higher leagues.
But as a performance measure, an out is an out is an out over a long period of time (figuring that ballpark, defense behind you, will basically even out).

The Sabre guys got Blyleven in, as did his self-promotion (which works).